Question: Should I represent myself on a first offense DUI? I have a .12 BAC and the case is in Burbank Court

Answer: I would not recommend representing yourself on a DUI case, or any other misdemeanor or felony for that matter. Although I recommend hiring private counsel, if that is not an option, generally speaking, you are better off with a public defender than representing yourself. You may get frustrated that the public defender does not have the time to speak to you about your case in detail, but there are a lot of intricacies with DUI cases, and with the law and Court in general. Also, with a public defender, you must be present in court for each hearing, which can take all day. With a privately retained attorney, you generally do not have to appear in court on misdemeanors (although there are exceptions to this).

Sincerely,

Phil Hache
DUI & Criminal Defense Attorney
www.philhachelaw.com
Handling DUI and Criminal matters throughout Courts in Southern California including Van Nuys, San Fernando, Burbank, Glendale, Pasadena, Metro, Bellflower, Alhambra, Malibu, Compton, Inglewood and other Courts.
Office in Sherman Oaks